"I've never heard anything like it. I can’t describe the noise to you, it was just... awful,” she said.

"I ran straight outside... there was a ball of flames, smoke – and there were people yelling and screaming to get out.

“Everyone in this whole street was terrified. There are a lot of older people who live around here and they were absolutely scared out of their wits.

“My neighbour Donna Krizsan wants to move out now she’s so terrified.”

Debris from the explosion was found hundreds of metres away in adjoining streets, while the affected unit was completely gutted. Windows in some of the neighbouring apartments were blown out and the complex fence was flattened.

The tragedy has left 16 residents temporarily homeless as fire officers and forensic investigators piece the incident together.

A number of residents spent Friday night at the Beenleigh PCYC while others stayed with friends or family.

Police could not say how long it would be until the residents would be allowed back in their homes.

A report is being prepared for the Coroner.

Anyone with information which could assist with this matter should contact CrimeStoppers anonymously via 1800 333 000 or crimestoppers.com.au 24hrs a day.